Kozhikode: A man booked under the Kerala Anti-Social Activities (Prevention) Act (KAAPA) and a woman travelling with him were allegedly subjected to a public assault and interrogation by a crowd in the presence of police at Neelechukunnu near Kuttiady in Kozhikode district.
The incident occurred on Saturday after police and local residents intercepted a car driven by Ajmal, a KAAPA accused who had earlier been externed by police and is facing multiple cases, including assault and alleged drug-related offences.
According to the information available, a complaint had been lodged after the car allegedly hit an autorickshaw at Kakkattil on Friday and left the scene without stopping. Police later traced the vehicle and attempted to stop it. Ajmal allegedly drove away at high speed after noticing the police pursuit. During the chase, the car reportedly collided with three vehicles, including an ambulance.
The vehicle was eventually stopped at Neelechukunnu with the assistance of local residents. After the occupants were taken out of the car, members of the crowd allegedly assaulted both Ajmal and the woman. Visuals of the incident circulating on social media show Ajmal being beaten after his hands and legs were tied.
The assault was reportedly carried out amid allegations that the occupants were in possession of narcotic substances and that the driver was a KAAPA accused. However, police said no drugs were recovered from the vehicle.
The incident has triggered criticism over the conduct of the police, with allegations that officers present at the scene failed to prevent the crowd from attacking the two occupants despite the assault taking place in their presence.